Section 20 022 001 - ANIMAL WELFARE REGULATIONSPart 1 DEFINITION OF TERMSSection 1.1 Definitions(a) Act - Refers to the provisions of T20 Chapter 197 "Welfare of Animals and T20 Sections 3681, 3682, and 3683 as relating to provisions for the inspection of kennel premises.(b) Division - Means the Livestock Division of the Department of Agriculture.(c) Division Representative - Means any inspector or other person employed by the Division who is responsible for the performance of the functions involved.(d) Non-human Primate - Means any non-human member of the highest order of mammals including prosimians, monkeys and apes.(e) Standards - Means the requirement with respect to the humane handling, care, treatment and transportation of animals.(f) Non-conditioned - Means animals which have been subjected to special care and treatment for sufficient time to stabilize and, where necessary to improve their health to make them suitable for sale.Part 2 REGULATIONS Section 2.1 Licensing and Registration Licensing period shall be from April 1 to March 31 or part thereof. Registration period shall be from January 1 to December 31 or part thereof.
Section 2.2 Record Keeping In connection with each dog and cat purchased or otherwise acquired, held, transported, or sold, or otherwise disposed of, a license shall keep and maintain the following information in the manner prescribed by the Division:
(1) The name and address of the person from whom acquired, and the person to whom sold or otherwise disposed of.(2) The dates of acquisition and disposition.(3) The description and identification of the animals.Section 2.3 Compliance with Standards Each license shall comply in all respects with the standards set forth for the humane handling, care, treatment and transportation of animals.
Section 2.4 Holding Period All dogs and cats acquired by a license shall be held by him, under his supervision and control, for a period of five business days after the acquisition of such animal provided, however, that dogs and cats suffering from disease, emaciation or injury may be destroyed by euthanasia prior to the expiration of the five day holding period only if such euthanasia is carried out under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian.
Section 2.5 Inspection of Records Each license upon request shall permit Division representatives to examine records required to be kept by the Act or regulations, and to make copies of such records, and to inspect such property and animals as such representative considers necessary to enforce the provisions of the Act, regulations or standards. The use of a room, or other facilities necessary for the proper examination of such records shall be extended to such authorized representative.
Section 2.6 Inspection for Missing Animals Each licensee upon request shall permit Division representatives; police or law officers of legally constituted law enforcement agencies with general law enforcement authority, to enter his premises to inspect animals and records for the purpose of seeking animals that are missing.
Part 3 STANDARDS Subpart A Specifications for Hanlding, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Dogs and CatsFACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.1 Facilities, General (a) Structural Strength - Housing facilities for dogs or cats shall be structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from injury, to contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other animals.(b) Water and electric power - Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable water shall be available.(c) Storage - Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such supplied against infestation or contamination by vermin. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable food.(d) Waste disposal - Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease hazards.(e) Washrooms and sinks - Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.(f) Runways - In facilities where dogs or cats are held for relatively short periods of time, such as, but not limited to, boarding kennels and animal shelters, runways shall be paved to facilitate proper cleaning and disinfection between occupants. In facilities where paving is not required by this subparagraph, runways shall be maintained in a sanitary manner at all times with adequate drainage to prevent standing water.Section 3.2 Facilities, Indoor(a) Heating - Indoor housing facilities for dogs and cats shall be sufficiently heated when necessary to protect the dogs or cats from cold, and to provide for their health and comfort. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to fall below 50 [degrees] F. for dogs and cats not acclimated to lower temperatures.(b) Ventilation - Indoor housing facilities for dogs or cats shall be adequately ventilated to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary ventilation, such as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning, shall be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or higher.(c) Lighting - Indoor housing facilities for dogs or cats shall have ample light, by natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the dogs or cats from excessive illumination.(d) Interior surfaces - The interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily sanitized.(e) Drainage - A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water from indoor housing facilities. If drains are used, they shall be properly constructed and kept in good repair to avoid foul odors therefrom. If closed drainage systems are used, they shall be equipped with traps and so installed as to prevent any backup of sewage onto the floor of the room.Section 3.3 Facilities, Outdoor (a) Shelter from sunlight - When sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient shade shall be provided to allow all dogs and cats kept outdoors to protect themselves from the direct rays of the sun.(b) Shelter from rain or snow - Dogs and cats kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter to allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.(c) Shelter from cold weather - Shelter shall be provided for all dogs and cats kept outdoors when the atmospheric temperature falls below 50 [degrees] F. Sufficient clean bedding material or other means of protection from the weather elements shall be provided when the ambient temperature falls below that temperature to which a dog or cat is acclimated.(d) Drainage - A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.Section 3.4 Primary Enclosures All primary enclosures for dogs and cats shall conform to the following requirements.
(a) General (1) Requirements for primary enclosures for dogs and cats.(i) Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the dogs and cats from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators out.(ii) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to enable the dogs and cats to remain dry and clean.(iii) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so that the dogs or cats contained therein have convenient access to clean food and water as required in this subpart.(iv) The floors of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to protect the dogs' and cats' feet and legs from injury.(2) Additional requirements for primary enclosures housing cats.(i) In all enclosures having a solid floor, sufficient clean litter shall be provided to contain excreta.(ii) Each primary enclosure shall be provided with a solid resting surface or surfaces which, in the aggregate, shall be of adequate size to comfortably hold all occupants of the primary enclosure at the same time. Such resting surface or surfaces shall be elevated in primary enclosures housing two or more cats.(b) Space Requirements (1) Dogs and Cats - Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space to allow each dog and cat to turn about freely and to easily stand, sit and lie in a comfortable normal position.(2) Dogs (i) In addition to the provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, each dog housed in any primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum square footage of floor space equal to the mathematical square of the sum of the length of the dog in inches, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, plus 6 inches, expressed in square feet. Not more than 12 adult noncontioned dogs shall be housed in the same primary enclosure. This requirement may be computed by using the following equation:
(length of dog in inches+6) x (length of dog in inches+6) (Required area in square inches) 144 Required square feet of floor space.
(ii) Dog houses with chains. If dog houses with chains are used as primary enclosures for dogs kept outdoors, the chains used shall be so placed or attached that they cannot become entangled with the chains of other dogs or any other objects. Such chains shall be of a type commonly used for the size dog involved and equipped with snap hooks and shall be attached to the dog by means of a well fitted collar. Such chains shall be at least four times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail and shall allow the dog convenient access to the dog house.(3) Cats - In addition to the provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, each adult cat housed in any primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum of 2 1/2 square feet of floor space. Not more than 12 adult nonconditioned cats shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.Section 3.5 Feeding(a) Dogs and cats shall be fed at least once each day except as otherwise might be required to provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from contamination, wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the dog or cat.(b) Food receptacles shall be accessible to all dogs or cats and shall be located so as to minimize contamination by excreta. Feeding pans shall be durable and kept clean. Disposable food receptacles may be used but must be discarded after each feeding. Self feeders may be used for the feeding of dry food, and they shall be sanitized regularly to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of feed.
Section 3.6 Watering If potable water is not accessible to the dogs and cats at all times, potable liquids shall be offered to such animals at least twice daily for periods of not less than one hour, except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. Watering receptacles shall be kept clean.
Section 3.7 Sanitation (a) Cleaning of primary enclosures - Excreta shall be removed from primary enclosures as often as necessary to prevent contamination of the dogs or cats contained therein and to reduce disease hazards and odors. When a hosing or flushing method is used for cleaning a primary enclosure, any dog contained therin shall be removed from such enclosure during the cleaning process, and adequate measures shall be taken to protect the animals in other such enclosures from being contaminated with water and other wastes.(b) Sanitization of primary enclosures (1) Prior to the introduction of nonconditioned dogs or cats into empty primary enclosure spreviously occupied, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(2) Primary enclosures for dogs or cats shall be sanitized often enough to prevent an accumulation of debris or excreta, or a disease hazard: Provided, however, That such enclosures shall be sanitized at least once every week in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(3) Cages, rooms, and hard-surfaced pens or runs shall be sanitized by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or detergent as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam.(c) Housekeeping - Premises (building and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises shall remain free of accumulations of trash.(d) Pest control - An effective program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.Section 3.8 Employees A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section 3.9 Classification and Separation Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups, with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Females in season (estrus) shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with males, except for breeding purposes.(b) Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious disposition shall be housed individually in a primary enclosure.(c) Puppies or kittens shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adult dogs or cats other than their dams.(d) Dogs shall not be housed in the same primary enlosure with cats, nor shall dogs or cats be housed in the same primary enclosure with any other species of animals.(e) Dogs or cats under quarantine or treatment for a communicable disease shall be separated from other dogs or cats and other susceptible species of animals in such a manner as to minimize dissemination of such disease.Section 3.10 Veterinary Care (a) Each dog and cat shall be observed daily by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone under his direct supervision. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or blind dogs shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.Section 3.11 Vehicles(a) Vehicles used in transporting dogs or cats shall be mechanically sound and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.(b) The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.(c) The interior of the animal cargo space shall be kept clean.Section 3.12 Primary Enclosures Used to Transport Dogs and Cats(a) Primary enclosures, such as compartments or transport cages, cartons or crates, used to transport dogs or cats, shall be well-constructed and well-ventilated and designed to protect the health and insure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that (1) each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing,(2) the openings of such enclosures are easily accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animals and(3) the animals are afforded adequate protection from the elements. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 95 [degrees] F. at any time nor exceed 85 [degrees] F. for a period of more than 4 hours, nor be allowed at any time to fall below 45 [degrees] F. unless the animals are acclimated to lower temperatures.(b) Animals transported in the same primary enclosure shall be of the same species and maintained in compatible groups. Puppies or kittens shall not be transported in the same primary enclosures with adult dogs or cats other than their dams. Any dog or cat exhibiting a vicious disposition shall be transported individually in a primary enclosure. Any female dog or cat in season (estrus) shall not be transported in the same primary enclosure with any male.(c) Primary enclosures used to transport dogs or cats shall be large enough to insure that each animal contained therein has sufficient space to turn about freely, to stand erect, and to lie in a natural position.(d) Animals shall not be placed in primary enclosures over other animals in transit unless each enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.(e) Primary enclosures used to transport dogs or cats shall be cleaned and sanitized between shipments. All litter in the vehicle shall be clean at the beginning of each trip.Section 3.13 Food and Water Requirements (a) If dogs or cats are transported for a period of more than 12 hours: (1) The vehicle shall stop at least once every 12 hours, and remain stopped for a period of at least 1 hour, during which time potable water shall be continuously provided for the dogs and cats.(2) Each adult dog and cat shall be fed at least once in each 24-hour period. Puppies and kittens shall have food made available to them every 6 hours.(b) Dogs shall be removed from the vehicle and given fresh water and an opportunity for exercise if they have been confined in the vehicle for a period of 24 hours.Section 3.14 Care in Transit It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to inspect the animals frequently to determine whether they need emergency veterinary care and if so, to obtain such care at the earliest opportunity.
Subpart B Specifications for Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation ofGuinea Pigs, Hamsters and other Rodents.FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.25 Facilities, General (a) Structural strength. Housing facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall be structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from injury, to contain the animals and to restrict the entrance of other animals.(b) Water and electric power. Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable water shall be available.(c) Storage. Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such supplies against spoilage or deterioration and infestation or contamination by vermin. Food supplies shall be stored in containers with tightly fitting lids or covers or in the original containers as received from the commercial sources of supply. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable food.(d) Waste disposal. Provisions shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and food wastes, bedding, dead annimals, and debris. Disposal facilities shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease hazards.(e) Washroom and sinks. Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.Section 3.26 Facilities, Indoor (a) Heating. Indoor housing facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters, and other rodents shall be sufficiently heated when necessary to protect the animals from the cold, and to provide for their health and comfort. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to fall below 60 [degrees] F. nor to exceed 85 [degrees] F.(b) Ventilation. Indoor housing facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall be adequately ventilated to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning, and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to rise above 85 [degrees] F.(c) Lighting. Indoor housing facilities for guinea pigs, hamsters, and other rodents shall have ample light, by natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents from excessive illumination.(d) Interior surfaces. The interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily sanitized.Section 3.27 Facilities, Outdoor (a) Hamsters shall not be housed in outdoor facilities.(b) Guinea pigs and other rodents shall not be housed in outdoor facilities unless such facilities are located in an appropriate climate and prior approval for such outdoor housing is obtained from the Commissioner.Section 3.28 Primary Enclosures All primary enclosures for guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General. (1) Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents from injury. Such enclosures, including their racks, shelving and other accessories, shall be constructed of smooth material substantially impervious to liquids and moisture.(2) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so that the guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents contained therein have convenient access to clean food and water as required in this subpart.(3) Primary enclosures having a solid floor shall be provided with clean bedding material.(4) Primary enclosures equipped with mesh or wire floors shall be so constructed as to allow feces to pass through the spaces of the mesh or wire: Provided, however, That such floors shall be constructed so as to protect the animals' feet and legs from injury.Section 3.29 Feeding (a) Guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents shall be fed each day except as otherwise might be required to provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from contamination, wholesome, palatable and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the guinea pig, hamster or other rodent.(b) Food comprising the basic diet shall be at least equivalent in quality and content to pelleted rations produced commercially and commonly available from feed suppliers.(c) The basic diet of guinea pigs, hamsters, and other rodents may be supplemented with good quality fruits or vegetables consistent with their individual dietary requirements.(d) Food receptacles, if used, shall be accessible to all guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents in a primary enclosure and shall be located so as to minimize contamination by excreta. All food receptacles shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used for the feeding of pelleted feed, measures must be taken to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of the feed. Hamsters may be fed pelleted feed on the floor of a primary enclosure.(e) Fruit or vegetable food supplements may be placed upon the bedding within the primary enclosure: Provided, however, That the uneaten portion of such supplements and any bedding soiled as a result of such feeding practices shall be removed from the primary enclosure when such uneaten supplements accumulate or such bedding becomes soiled to a degree that might be harmful or uncomfortable to animals therein.Section 3.30 Watering Unless food supplements consumed by guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents supply them with their normal water requirements, potable water shall be provided daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. Open containers used for dispensing water to guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be so placed in or attached to the primary enclosure as to minimize contamination from excreta. All watering receptacles shall be sanitized when dirty.
Section 3.31 Sanitation (a) Cleaning and sanitation of primary enclosures.(1) Primary enclosures shall be cleaned and sanitized often enough to prevent an accumulation of excreta or debris: Provided, however, That such enclosures shall be sanitized at least one every 2 weeks in the manner provided in subparagraph (4) of this paragraph.(2) In the event a primary enclosure becomes soiled or wet to a degree that might be harmful or uncomfortable to the animals therein due to leakage of the watering system, discharges from dead or dying animals, spoiled perishable foods, or moisture condensation, the guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be transferred to clean primary enclosures.(3) Prior to the introduction of guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents into empty enclosures previously occupied, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph (4) of this paragraph.(b) Space requirements (1) Guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents. Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space for each animal contained therein to make normal postural adjustments with adequate freedom of movement.(2) Guinea pigs. In addition to the provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, the following space requirements are applicable to primary enclosures for guinea pigs: (i) The interior height of any primary enclosure used to confine guinea pigs shall be at least 6 1/2 inches.(ii) Each guinea pig housed in a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of foor space in accordance with following table: Weight or state of maturity | Minimum space per guinea pig |
| (square inches) |
Weaning to 350 grams | 60 |
350 grams or more | 90 |
Breeders | 180 |
(3) Hamsters. In addition to the provisions of subparagraph (1) of this paragraph the following space requirements are applicable to primary enclosures for hamsters: (i) The interior height of any primary enclosure used to confine hamsters shall be at least 5 1/2 inches, except that in the case of dwarf hamsters, such interior height shall be at least 5 inches.(ii) A nursing female hamster, together with her litter, shall be housed in a primary enclosure which contains no other hamsters and which provides at least 121 square inches of floor space: Provided, however, That in the case of dwarf hamsters such floor space shall be at least 25 square inches.(iii) The minimum amount of floor space per individual hamster and the maximum number of hamsters allowed in a single primary enclosure, except as provided for nursing females in subdivision (ii) of this paragraph, shall be in accordance with the following table: Age | Minimum space per hamster (square inches) | Maximum population per enclosure |
Dwarf | Other |
Weaning to 5 weeks | 5.0 | 10.0 | 20 |
5 to 10 weeks | 7.5 | 12.5 | 16 |
10 weeks or more | 9 | 15.0 | 13 |
(iv) The space requirements for rats shall be those required for guinea pigs. The space requirement for mice shall be those for hamsters.(4) Primary enclosures for guinea pigs, hamsters, or other rodents shall be sanitized by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or detergent as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam. (b) Housekeeping. Premises (buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises shall remain free of accumulations of trash.(c) Pest control. An effective program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.Section 3.32 Employees A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section 3.33 Classification and Separation Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups, with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Except when harem breeding is practiced, preweanling guinea pigs shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adults other than their parents.(b) Guinea pigs shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with hamsters, nor shall guinea pigs or hamsters be housed in the same primary enclosure with any other species of animals.(c) Guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents under quarantine or treatment for a communicable disease shall be separated from other guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents and other susceptible species of animals in such a manner as to minimize dissemination of such disease.Section 3.34 Veterinary Care (a) Each guinea pig, hamster and other rodent shall be observed at least every 48 hours by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone under his direct supervision, for evidence of disease or injury. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or blind guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.Section 3.35 Vehicles (a) Vehicles used in transporting guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be mechanically sound and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.(b) The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.(c) The interior of the animal cargo space shall be kept clean.Section 3.36 Primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents (a) Primary enclosures, such as cartons, boxes, or transport cages, used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be well-constructed, well-ventilated, and designed to protect the health and insure the safety of the animals. Any such primary enclosures which cannot be readily sanitized shall be constructed of new material and shall be discarded after one usage. Any such primary enclosures which may be readily sanitized may be reused but shall be sanitized prior to the introduction of guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents for shipment. All primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 85 [degrees] F. nor fall below 60 [degrees] F.(b) Animals transported in the same primary enclosure shall be of the same species and in compatible groups.(c) Primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents shall be large enough to insure that each animal contained therein has sufficient space to turn about freely and to make postural adjustments.(d) Not more than 15 guinea pigs shall be transported in the same primary enclosure. Not more than 25 hamsters shall be transported in the same primary enclosure.(e) In addition to the other provisions of this section, the following requirements shall also apply to primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents. (1) Guinea pigs. (i) The interior height of primary enclosures used to transport guinea pigs shall be at least 8 inches.(ii) Each guinea pig transported in a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of floor space in accordance with the following table: Weight (grams) | Minimum space per guinea pig (square inches) |
Up to 350 | 30 |
350 to 600 | 45 |
Over 600 | 55 |
(2) Hamsters. (i) The interior height of a primary enclosure used to transport hamsters shall be at least 6 inches except that in the case of dwarf hamsters such interior height shall be at least 5 inches.(ii) Each hamster transported in a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of floor space in accordance with the following table: Age | Minimum space per hamster (square inches) |
Dwarf | Other |
Weaning to 5 weeks | 5 | 7.0 |
5 to 10 weeks | 7.5 | 11.0 |
Over 10 weeks | 9 | 15.0 |
Section 3.37 Feed and Water Requirements If guinea pigs, hamsters or other rodents are transported for a period of more than 6 hours, the animals shall be fed the quantity and quality of fruits or vegetables sufficient to satisfy their food and water needs during transit.
Section 3.38 Care in Transit It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Subpart C Specifications for Handling, Care, Treatment and Transportation of Rabbits.FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.50 Facilities, General (a) Structural strength. Housing facilities for rabbits shall be structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from injury, to contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other animals.(b) Water and electric power. Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable water shall be available.(c) Storage. Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such supplies against infestation or contamination by vermin. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable food.(d) Waste disposal. Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease hazards.(e) Washroom and sinks. Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.Section 3.51 Facilities, Indoor (a) Heating. Indoor housing facilities for rabbits need not be heated.(b) Ventilation. Indoor housing facilities for rabbits shall be adequately ventilated to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of windows, doors, vents or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary ventilation, such as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning, shall be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or higher.(c) Lighting. Indoor housing facilities for rabbits shall have ample light, by natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the rabbits from excessive illumination.(d) Interior surfaces. The interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily sanitized.Section 3.52 Facilities, Outdoor (a) Shelter from sunlight. When sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient shade shall be provided to allow all rabbits kept outdoors to protect themselves from the direct rays of the sun. When the atmospheric temperature exceeds 90 [degrees] F. artificial cooling shall be provided by a sprinkler system or other means.(b) Shelter from rain or snow. Rabbits kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter to allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.(c) Shelter from cold weather. Shelter shall be provided for all rabbits kept outdoors when the atmospheric temperature falls below 40 [degrees] F.(d) Protection from predators. Outdoor housing facilitites for rabbits shall be fenced or otherwise enclosed to minimize the entrance of predators.(e) Drainage. A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.Section 3.53 Primary Enclosures All primary enclosures for rabbits shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General. (1) Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the rabbits from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators out.(2) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to enable the rabbits to remain dry and clean.(3) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so that the rabbits contained therein have convenient access to clean food and water as required in this subpart.(4) The floors of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to protect the rabbits' feet and legs from injury. Litter shall be provided in all primary enclosures having solid floors.(5) A suitable nest box containing clean nesting material shall be provided in each primary enclosure housing a female with a litter less than one month of age.(b) Space requirements. Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space for the animal to make normal postural adjustments with adequate freedom of movement. Each rabbit housed in a primary enclosure shall be provided a minimum amount of floor space, exclusive of the space taken up by food and water receptacles, in accordance with the following table: Category | Individual weights (pounds) | Minimum space per rabbit (square inches) |
Groups | 3 through 5 | 144 |
6 through 8 | 288 |
9 or more | 432 |
Individual Adults | 3 through 5 | 180 |
6 through 8 | 360 |
9 through 11 | 540 |
12 or more | 720 |
Nursing females | 3 through 5 | 576 |
6 through 8 | 720 |
9 through 11 | 864 |
12 or more | 1080 |
Section 3.54 Feeding (a) Rabbits shall be fed at least once each day except as otherwise might be required to provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from contamination, wholesome, palatable and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the rabbit.(b) Food receptacles shall be accessible to all rabbits in a primary enclosure and shall be located so as to minimize contamination by excreta. All food receptacles shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used for the feeding of dry feed, measures must be taken to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of the feed.Section 3.55 Watering Sufficient potable water shall be provided daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. All watering receptacles shall be sanitized when dirty.
Section 3.56 Sanitization(a) Cleaning of primary enclosures. (1) Primary enclosures shall be kept reasonably free of excreta, hair, cobwebs and other debris by periodic cleaning. Measures shall be taken to prevent the wetting of rabbits in such enclosures if a washing process is used.(2) In primary enclosures equipped with solid floors, soiled litter shall be removed and replaced with clean litter at least once each week.(3) If primary enclosures are equipped with wire or mesh floors, the trough or pans under such enclosures shall be cleaned at least once each week. If worm bins are used under such enclosures they shall be maintained in a sanitary condition.(b) Sanitization of primary enclosures. (1) Primary enclosures for rabbits shall be sanitized at least once every 30 days in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(2) Prior to the introduction of rabbits into empty primary enclosures previously occupied, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(3) Primary enclosures for rabbits shall be sanitized by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or detergent as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam or flame.(c) Housekeeping. Premises (buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises shall remain free of accumulations of trash.(d) Pest control. An effective program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.Section 3.57 Employees A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section 3.58 Classification and Separation Animals housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups with the following additional restrictions:
(a) Rabbits shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with any other species of animals unless required for scientific reasons.(b) Rabbits under quarantine or treatment for a communicable disease shall be separated from other rabbits and other susceptible species of animals in such a manner as to minimize dissemination of such disease.Section 3.59 Veterinary Care Each rabbit shall be observed at least every 48 hours by the animal caretaker in charge, or by someone working under his direct supervision, for evidence of disease or injury. Sick or diseased, injured, lame or blind rabbits shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.
Section 3.60 Vehicles (a) Vehicles used in transporting rabbits shall be mechanically sound and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported without injurious drafts.(b) The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.(c) The interior of the animal cargo space shall be kept clean.Section 3.61 Primary Enclosures Used to Transport Rabbits(a) Primary enclosures, such as compartments or transport cages, cartons, or crates, used to transport rabbits, shall be well-constructed, well-ventilated and designed to protect the health and insure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that (1) each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing,(2) the openings of such enclosures are easily accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animals, and(3) the animals are afforded adequate protection from the elements. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 85 [degrees] F. nor fall below that temperature to which the animals are acclimated.(b) Rabbits transported in the same primary enclosure shall be in compatible groups and shall not be transported in the same primary enclosures with other species of animals.(c) Primary enclosures used to transport rabbits shall be large enough to insure that each rabbit contained therein has sufficient space to turn about freely, and to make normal postural adjustments. Not more than 15 rabbits shall be transported in the same primary enclosure.(d) Rabbits shall not be placed in primary enclosures over other animals in transit unless each enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.(e) Primary enclosures used to transport rabbits shall be cleaned and sanitized between shipments. All litter in the vehicle shall be clean at the beginning of each trip.Section 3.62 Food and Water Requirements If rabbits are transported for a period of more than 6 hours, they shall be provided with food and water. This requirement may be met by providing feedstuff and water, or the quantity and quality of vegetables, sufficient to satisfy their food and water needs during transit.
Section 3.63 Care in Transit It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Subpart D Specifications for the Humane Handling, Care, Treatment, and Transportation of Nonhuman Primates; Footnote 5.FACILITIES AND OPERATING STANDARDS
Section 3.75 Facilities, General (a) Structural Strength - The housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall be structurally sound and shall be maintained in good repair, to protect the animals from injury, to contain the animals, and to restrict the entrance of other animals.(b) Water and Electric Power - Reliable and adequate electric power, if required to comply with other provisions of this subpart, and adequate potable water shall be available.(c) Storage - Supplies of food and bedding shall be stored in facilities which adequately protect such supplies against infestation or contamination by vermin. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable food.(d) Waste Disposal - Provision shall be made for the removal and disposal of animal and food wastes, bedding, dead animals, and debris. Disposal facilities shall be so provided and operated as to minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease hazards.(e) Washrooms and Sinks - Facilities, such as washrooms, basins, or sinks, shall be provided to maintain cleanliness among animal caretakers.Section 3.76 Facilities, Indoor (a) Hearing - Indoor housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall be sufficiently heated when necessary to protect the animals from the cold, and to provide for their health and comfort. The ambient temperature shall not be allowed to fall below 50 [degrees] F.(b) Ventilation - Indoor housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall be adequately ventilated to provide for the health and comfort of the animals at all times. Such facilities shall be provided with fresh air either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. Auxiliary ventilation, such as exhaust fans and vents or air conditioning, shall be provided when the ambient temperature is 85 [degrees] F. or higher.(c) Lighting - Indoor housing facilities for nonhuman primates shall have ample light, by natural or artificial means, or both, of good quality and well distributed. Such lighting shall provide uniformly distributed illumination of sufficient light intensity to permit routine inspection and cleaning during the entire working period. Primary enclosures shall be so placed as to protect the nonhuman primates from excessive illumination.(d) Interior Surfaces - The interior building surfaces of indoor housing facilities shall be constructed and maintained so that they are substantially impervious to moisture and may be readily sanitized.(e) Drainage - A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water from indoor housing facilities. If drains are used, they shall be properly constructed and kept in good repair to avoid foul odors therefrom. If closed drainage systems are used, they shall be equipped with traps and so installed as to prevent any backup of sewage onto the floor of the room.Section 3.77 Facilities, Outdoor (a) Shelter From Sunlight - When sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort, sufficient shade shall be provided to allow all nonhuman primates kept outdoors to protect themselves from the direct rays of the sun.(b) Shelter From Rain or Snow - Nonhuman primates kept outdoors shall be provided with access to shelter to allow them to remain dry during rain or snow.(c) Shelter From Cold Weather - Shelter shall be provided for all nonhuman primates kept outdoors to afford comfort and protection to such animals appropriate for the local climatic conditions and nonhuman primate species concerned.(d) Drainage - A suitable method shall be provided to rapidly eliminate excess water.Section 3.78 Primary Enclosures All primary enclosures for nonhuman primates shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) General (1) Primary enclosures shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the nonhuman primates from injury, to contain them, and to keep predators out.(2) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to enable the nonhuman primates to remain dry and clean.(3) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so that the nonhuman primates contained therein have convenient access to clean food and water as required in this subpart.(4) The floors of the primary enclosures shall be constructed so as to protect the nonhuman primates from injury.(b) Space Requirements (1) Primary enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space to allow each nonhuman primate to make normal postural adjustments with adequate freedom of movement.(2) Each nonhuman primate housed in a primary enclosure shall be provided with a minimum floor space equal to an area of at least three times the area occupied by such primate when standing on four feet.Section 3.79 Feeding (a) Nonhuman primates shall be fed at least once each day except as otherwise might be required to provide adequate veterinary care. The food shall be free from contamination, wholesome, palatable, and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the nonhuman primate.(b) Food, and food receptacles if used, shall be accessible to all nonhuman primates and shall be placed so as to minimize contamination by excreta. Food receptacles shall be kept clean. If self-feeders are used, measures shall be taken to prevent molding, deterioration or caking of food.Section 3.80 Watering If potable water is not accessible to the nonhuman primates at all times, such water shall be offered to them at least twice daily except as might otherwise be required to provide adequate veterinary care. All watering receptacles shall be kept clean.
Section 3.81 Sanitization(a) Cleaning of Primary Enclosures - Excreta shall be removed from primary enclosures as often as necessary to prevent contamination of the nonhuman primates contained therein and to reduce disease hazards and odors. When hosing or flushing methods are used for this purpose, measures shall be taken to prevent animals confined in such enclosures from being wetted involuntarily.(b) Sanitization of Enclosures(1) Prior to the introduction of nonhuman primates into primary enclosures previously occupied by other nonhuman primates, such enclosures shall be sanitized in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(2) Primary enclosures for nonhuman primates shall be sanitized often enough to prevent primates an accumulation of debris or excreta, or a disease hazard: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That such enclosures shall be sanitized at least once every 2 weeks in the manner provided in subparagraph (3) of this paragraph.(3) Cages, rooms and hard surfaced pens or runs shall be sanitized often enough by washing them with hot water (180 [degrees] F.) and soap or detergent, as in a mechanical cage washer, or by washing all soiled surfaces with a detergent solution followed by a safe and effective disinfectant, or by cleaning all soiled surfaces with live steam. Runs, if provided, shall be paved.(c) Housekeeping - Premises (buildings and grounds) shall be kept clean and in good repair in order to protect the animals from injury and to facilitate the prescribed husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Premises shall remain free of accumulations of trash.(d) Pest Control - An effective program for the control of insects, ectoparasites, and avian and mammalian pests shall be established and maintained.Section 3.82 Employees A sufficient number of employees shall be utilized to maintain the prescribed level of husbandry practices set forth in this subpart. Such practices shall be under the supervision of an animal caretaker who has a background in animal husbandry or care.
Section 3.83 Classification and Separation Nonhuman primates housed in the same primary enclosure shall be maintained in compatible groups and shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with animal species other than nonhuman primates.
Section 3.84 Veterinary Care Each nonhuman primate shall be observed daily by the animal caretaker in charge or by someone working under his direct supervision. Sick or diseased, injured, lame, or blind nonhuman primates shall be provided with veterinary care or humanely disposed of.
Section 3.85 Vehicles(a) Vehicles used in transporting nonhuman primates shall be mechanically sound and equipped to provide fresh air to all animals being transported, without injurious drafts.(b) The animal cargo space shall be so constructed and maintained as to prevent the ingress of exhaust from the vehicle's engine.(c) The interior of the animal cargo space shall be kept clean.Section 3.86 Primary Enclosures Used to Transport Nonhuman Primates (a) Primary enclosures such as compartments, transport cages or crates, used to transport nonhuman primates shall be well-constructed, well-ventilated, and designed to protect the health and insure the safety of the animals. Such enclosures shall be constructed or positioned in the vehicle in such a manner that (1) each animal in the vehicle has access to sufficient air for normal breathing,(2) the openings of such enclosures are easily accessible at all times for emergency removal of the animal and(3) the animals are afforded adequate protection from the elements. The temperature within such enclosures shall not be allowed to exceed the atmospheric temperature. Moreover the ambient temperature shall not be allowed to exceed 85 [degrees] F. for more than 4 hours continuously nor allowed to fall below 45 [degrees] F.(b) Nonhuman primates transported in the same primary enclosure shall be in compatible groups and shall not be transported in the same primary enclosures with other species of animals.(c) Primary enclosures used to transport nonhuman primates shall be large enough to insure that each nonhuman primate contained therein has sufficient space to turn about freely and to make normal postural adjustments. Not more than 10 nonhuman primates shall be transported in the same primary enclosures.(d) Nonhuman primates shall not be placed in primary enclosures over other animals in transit unless each enclosure is fitted with a floor of a material which prevents animal excreta from entering lower enclosures.(e) Primary enclosures used to transport nonhuman primates shall be cleaned and sanitized between shipments. All litter in the vehicle shall be clean at the beginning of each trip.Section 3.88 Care in Transit It shall be the responsibility of the attendant or driver to provide or obtain adequate care for the animals in case of an emergency.
Footnote 5. Nonhuman primates include a great diversity of forms, ranging from the marmoset weighing only a few ounces, to the adult gorilla weighing hundreds of pounds. They come from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, and they live in different habitats. Their nutritional and activity requirements differ as do their social and environmental requirements. As a result, the conditions appropriate for one species do not necessarily apply to another; therefore, discretion must be used in interpreting these standards.
20-001 Code Vt. R. 20-022-001-X
Adopted: December 20, 1971
Effective Date: Junuary 1972 Statutory Authority: 20 V.S.A. Chapter 197 and §§ 3681-3683